Have you ever wondered why some salads feel light and exciting while others feel plain and boring? What if one simple bowl could be fresh, filling, and full of flavor at the same time? This refreshing Shrimp Salad, also known as エビのサラダ, answers that question in the best way. It combines soft shrimp, springy noodles, crisp vegetables, and a bold dressing to create a dish that wakes up your taste buds without feeling heavy.

This recipe is easy, quick, and perfect for anyone who wants something fresh but satisfying.

Table of Contents

Why This Shrimp Salad Is Special

This Shrimp Salad stands out because it balances sweet, salty, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors in one bowl. The shrimp are gently cooked so they stay tender. The vermicelli noodles soak up the dressing, while the mushrooms and bean sprouts add texture.

Quick Facts Refreshing Shrimp Salad (エビのサラダ)

Difficulty

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Easy

Total Time

20–25 minutes prep + chill

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Essential Ingredients and Why They Matter

Key Ingredients (材料)

Shrimp Salad エビのサラダ

This Shrimp Salad is light, fresh, and full of flavor. The noodles soak up the tangy dressing, the shrimp stay tender, and the veggies add a crisp bite. Each card below explains why the ingredient matters and what you can swap in if needed.

1

Harusame (20g)

Harusame are light glass noodles that turn soft and springy after boiling. They hold the dressing well, so every bite tastes bright.

Substitution ideas:

• Rice vermicelli (closest feel)
• Cellophane noodles / mung bean noodles
• Thin soba noodles (more earthy flavor)

2

Vannamei Shrimp (8–10 shrimp)

Shrimp bring sweet, tender bites and make the salad filling without feeling heavy. Quick boiling keeps them juicy and soft.

Substitution ideas:

• Any medium shrimp, peeled or shell-on
• Cooked crab sticks (for a quick swap)
• Firm tofu cubes (for a no-seafood option)

3

Maitake Mushrooms (about 65g)

Maitake adds a soft, slightly chewy texture and a mild savory taste. Microwaving is fast and keeps the flavor gentle.

Substitution ideas:

• Shiitake (slice thin)
• Enoki (quick blanch)
• Button mushrooms (simple and easy)

4

Bean Sprouts (1 bag)

Bean sprouts add a clean crunch and make the salad feel extra fresh. Cutting them short helps them mix evenly with noodles.

Substitution ideas:

• Shredded cabbage (more crunch)
• Cucumber sticks (fresh and cool)
• Baby spinach (soft green option)

5

Fish Sauce (1 tbsp)

Fish sauce brings deep savory flavor with just a small amount. It makes the dressing taste rich and balanced.

Substitution ideas:

• Soy sauce (milder, less “funky”)
• Tamari (gluten-free option)
• A pinch of salt + a little extra lemon

6

Honey (1 tbsp)

Honey smooths out the salty and spicy parts of the dressing. It also helps the noodles taste rounded and not sharp.

Substitution ideas:

• Maple syrup
• Brown sugar (dissolve well)
• Agave syrup

7

Lemon Juice + Ginger + Garlic

Lemon makes the salad taste bright. Ginger adds a fresh kick. Garlic brings a warm, tasty smell that ties everything together.

Substitution ideas:

• Lime juice instead of lemon
• Powdered ginger/garlic (use a tiny amount)
• Grated onion for a softer sharp taste

8

Doubanjiang (1 tsp)

Doubanjiang gives the dressing a little heat and a deep savory taste. A small spoon is enough to wake up the whole salad.

Substitution ideas:

• Chili garlic sauce (use less at first)
• Gochujang (sweeter and thicker)
• Chili flakes + a pinch of miso

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Dressing

Boil the harusame according to the package instructions. Drain well and cut into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix honey, doubanjiang, fish sauce, lemon juice, grated ginger, and grated garlic until smooth.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Shrimp

Separate the maitake mushrooms into small clusters. Place them in a heat-safe container, cover loosely, and microwave at 600W for 1 minute. Let them cool.
Clean the shrimp by removing the vein while keeping the shells on. Boil briefly in plenty of water until they turn red. Rinse in cold water, peel, remove tails, and cut in half.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

Cut the bean sprouts into about 2 cm lengths. This makes them easier to eat and helps them mix evenly with the noodles.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the noodles, mushrooms, shrimp, and bean sprouts to the bowl with the dressing. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated. Transfer to a container and chill before serving.

Secrets to Success and Expert Tips

These simple tips will help you make a fresh, flavorful Shrimp Salad (エビのサラダ) with tender shrimp, springy noodles, and a balanced dressing every time:

• ♥
  Do not overcook the shrimp
  Boil just until they turn red and firm up. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery and dry.
• ♥
  Cool shrimp quickly for a clean taste
  Rinse in cold water right after boiling. This stops cooking fast and keeps the texture tender.
• ♥
  Cut noodles into bite-size pieces
  Short noodles are easier to mix and easier to eat. They also hold the dressing more evenly.
• ♥
  Let the mushrooms cool before mixing
  Warm mushrooms can release extra moisture and thin the dressing. Cooling keeps the salad fresh and flavorful.
• ♥
  Mix the dressing until smooth
  Stir honey, lemon, fish sauce, ginger, garlic, and doubanjiang well so the flavor spreads evenly through the salad.
• ♥
  Chill before serving for the best flavor
  Resting in the fridge helps the noodles soak up the dressing and makes the salad taste brighter and more refreshing.

Assembly and Presentation

Start with the noodles as the base. Add the mushrooms, shrimp, and bean sprouts evenly. Toss gently so the shrimp stay intact. For presentation, use a wide bowl so the ingredients spread out instead of piling up. This makes the salad look clean and inviting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Shrimp Salad keeps well in the refrigerator.

• Store in an airtight container
• Keeps fresh for up to 4 days
• Do not freeze, as the texture will change
• Stir gently before serving again

This recipe is perfect for meal prep because the flavors improve over time.

Recipe Variations

Shrimp Salad（エビのサラダ）is very flexible, so you can easily adjust flavors, textures, and ingredients based on your taste or what you have at home. Here are some simple and tasty ways to change this recipe:

1

Adjust the Flavor

Change the dressing slightly to suit your taste:

• Add more lemon juice for extra freshness
• Use a little more honey for a sweeter balance
• Increase doubanjiang for a spicier salad

2

Change the Protein

If you do not want shrimp, try one of these options:

• Boiled chicken breast, thinly sliced
• Cooked squid rings for a seafood twist
• Firm tofu cubes for a vegetarian version

3

Add More Vegetables

Extra vegetables can add color and crunch:

• Sliced cucumber for a cool bite
• Shredded cabbage for extra crunch
• Carrot strips for sweetness and color

4

Try Different Serving Styles

Change how you serve the salad to match the occasion:

• Serve chilled in small bowls as a side dish
• Plate over lettuce for a full meal salad
• Enjoy as a cold noodle-style lunch box dish

Another Delicious Recipe to Try

If you enjoyed this refreshing Shrimp Salad, you may also love trying some comforting and crispy Japanese favorites. One great option is Croquettes (Korokke) お母さんのコロッケ, a classic homemade dish made with soft mashed potatoes, simple seasoning, and a crunchy golden coating. These croquettes are filling, family-friendly, and perfect as a main dish or side.

Another tasty choice is Fried Gyoza (Japanese Potstickers) 龍子, known for their crispy bottoms and juicy filling. Fried gyoza are quick to make and full of flavor, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or sharing with friends.

Both recipes pair wonderfully with light dishes like shrimp salad and help you enjoy a balanced Japanese-style meal at home.

Conclusion

This refreshing Shrimp Salad is simple, light, and full of flavor. It is easy to prepare, quick to assemble, and flexible enough to suit many tastes. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this recipe shows how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something special. Try different variations and make it your own.

FAQs

Is Shrimp Salad healthy?

Yes. Shrimp Salad is high in protein, low in fat, and full of fresh ingredients. It is a balanced meal that feels light but satisfying.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes. This salad is ideal for make-ahead meals and tastes even better after resting in the fridge.

How long does it last in the refrigerator?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make it without spicy ingredients?

Yes. You can reduce or remove the doubanjiang for a mild version.

What makes this Shrimp Salad refreshing?

The combination of lemon juice, ginger, bean sprouts, and light noodles creates a clean and fresh taste that does not feel heavy.

Shrimp Salad（エビのサラダ） is a simple recipe that delivers fresh flavor, quick preparation, and great versatility, making it a perfect choice for everyday meals.

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